QB Magazine, August 2018

QB MAGAZINE THE VOICE OF QUEENSLAND BAPTISTS | AUG/SEPT 18

Health Check for our churches – Part 4

Sensing God – Taste

Why I refuse to be a “hands-on” dad

08

32

40

Print post approved ISSN: 100003837 | The Queensland Baptist - first published in 1890. This series Vol 16 Issue 4. | qb.org.au

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QB MINISTRIES 18

QB Women Ethical fasion and faith

20

QCCC Why Christian camping still matters

26

QB Archives ‘Too emotional, too long and wrong for the occasion!’

28

Malyon Esther’s dreams for people of the rising sun

CONTENTS

30 Carinity

Exciting new era for Carinity aged care

ARTICLES 07

04

The Churches Christ

Attends 32

Sensing God Series

36

Reflections from the

writing of Moses

38

Prayer, joy and a bit of

REGULARS 4 From the Acting General Superintendent

playdough

8

Knowing God Series

39

most?

10

Speaking out: Peter Francis

40

Why I refuse to be a

12

Baptisms

‘hands-on’ Dad

13

Around the regions

15

God moments

What do we really desire

16 Milestones

32

12

18

23

Persecution brief

24

QB convention 2018

42

Reviews

43

Called home

44

Fun zone

46

Classifieds

QB PARTNERS 34 BWAA

Sima’s incredible story

Cover Photo: Beautiful Cairns – QB Convention 2018

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 3

FROM THE ACTING GENERAL SUPERINTENDENT

Following in the footsteps of Jesus…

Whether you are a journey person or a destination person, we all experience transitions of some sort or other in life. Organisations are no different! This is a year of transition for us as a movement. The review of Queensland Baptists that commenced in 2017 is continuing, and the information that has been gathered is still being collated and processed. We are not yet certain what the shape and function of the denominational support structures will look like.

Despite some uncertainty about these things, we are, even in this season, called to continue to fulfil the great commandment and the great commission! The ministry of making disciples and loving people continues, even as we work towards new and perhaps different expressions of how Queensland Baptists Services Group might support the churches in doing this in the future.

A key scripture that the Regional Consultants Team discerned while we were on retreat last year was 1 Peter 2:21, “To this you were called, 4 AUG/SEPT 18 QB.ORG.AU

because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.”

During this time of transition, we need to be following the example of Jesus. Focusing on His steps and not the circumstances around us. Following Jesus’ example of representing God, presenting the Gospel, and seeing transformation in this world as people come to know Him. In the New Testament there are three key scriptures that give us insights to effective community engagement.

These are three ways Jesus walked, and, also ways for us to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.

commandment; relationship comes before task! Dr Ed Delf said, “You cannot turn people on if they want to turn you off!” In 1 Corinthians 11:31, the Apostle Paul pointed to love as the “most excellent way.”

It is not the size of our church, the gifts we have, our awesome worship, the amazing preaching and teaching, the anointing we operate in – these are not the things that grab people’s attention. It is the love that we have, and the expression of that love that is compelling. The Greek word for “most excellent way” is huperbolé from ὑπέρ (hupér, “above”) and βάλλω (bállō, “I throw”). The most excellent way that Paul talks about is love. Love is the higher way we need to step up into!

1) Stepping up... Love “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

John 13:34-35

One aspect of following in the steps of Jesus is stepping up and loving others like He does. Jesus commands us to love each other as He loved us. How has Jesus loved us? He loved us to death!

This is the great command of Jesus. The great commission happens in the context of the great

Jesus said that when we step up in love people will notice! It is one of the keys to community engagement;

and did not act according to His own inclinations.

The second is the horizontal dimension: The outworking of a unified relationship with God will be right relationships and unity with each other as members of the body of Christ.

The Apostle Paul saw unity as a foremost priority for the church at Philippi when he said, Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.

Phil 2:1-2

“That the world (everyone) might know!” When we love like Jesus loved, we look like Jesus. We are bearing the family resemblance—and that is attractive! So, step up! …walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:2 2) Stepping in... Unity Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. John 17:21b-23 Stepping in unity has two dimensions to it: The first is the vertical dimension; we are to step in unity with Jesus. The apostle Paul called it, “keeping in step with the Spirit.” Jesus lived in a unified relationship with God. He cultivated His relationship with God the Father

For Paul, it was vital that followers of Jesus work together out of a common unity. In writing to the Philippians his priority was not getting out of jail, he wasn’t interested in them giving more, or doing some service. What would complete his joy was that they be one! Why? Because we make better progress and have more impact when we are unified!

Unity is not uniformity. Unity cannot be imposed, or demanded, it needs to be given freely. Unity does not come though outward compliance, but heart-felt submission.

When we step in unity with the Holy Spirit and with each other, we have an impact on the world around us. Jesus said that two things will happen when we act in unity. The world will both know and believe.

Our unity is a sign to those who do not yet follow Jesus of the reality of God! Unity is a powerful witness, so step in!

3) Stepping out… Good Deeds In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matt 5:16 These verses speak about our practical and visible influence as followers of Jesus.

Some things are meant to be seen! “Let your light shine before others!”. The truth is that there is no transformation without incarnation!

The light that Jesus mentioned are the good works we do because we are His followers. We follow in Jesus steps when we do good things in His name. Good works are a natural out-flow of our relationship with God thorough Jesus. As Ephesians 2:10 makes plain, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Jesus said he was the light of the world; he made God visible in tangible ways. In the same way, we need to be visible and get involved in serving the community around us.

If the community is not going to the church, then the church needs to go to the community! People need to see our good deeds. Like a light, they need to be visible to be effective.

Stepping out is as simple as finding a need around you and filling it.

Good deeds done in Jesus name are not meant to draw attention to ourselves but to God. When there is nothing in it for us, people pay attention. The promise of Jesus when we step out, is that people will be drawn to God and glorify Him, because we did good deeds in His name! Jesus bridged the divide between God and humanity. We likewise are called to follow His steps and bridge the gap! So, step out!

As a people in transition who either enjoy the journey or want to get to the destination, let us make a conscious decision to, step up, step in, and step out following in the footsteps of Jesus!

Stewart Pieper Acting General Superintendent stewart.pieper@qb.org.au

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 5

QB MAGAZINE

FROM THE EDITOR

THE VOICE OF QUEENSLAND BAPTISTS

The qb is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association, published bi-monthly by Queensland Baptist Services Group in February, April, June, August, October and December.

Editor: Linda Nevell Design: Shell Graphix Print: Printcraft This magazine is printed with soy based inks and paper from sustainable forest plantations.

We welcome reader feedback and opinions about our articles. Remember to include your full name, email and postal addresses.

What a wonderful QB convention we enjoyed in beautiful Cairns, hosted at Rydges Esplanade Hotel and Cairns Baptist Church! Thank you to everyone who came to the event and made it so special. We enjoyed hearing from Edmund and Ann Chan, and all the elective speakers. We also appreciated catching up with our brothers and sisters in Christ. It was great to see so many regional and rural churches represented at convention, and hearing about the special challenges (and joys!) they face in remote ministries. A special thank you to Josh McGinty and the Cairns Baptist team for providing volunteer helpers for the kids and teens groups, and hosting a wonderful dinner and worship sessions! We have a great selection of convention photos in this issue, and more photos are available on the QB magazine blog (www.qbmagazine.org.au).

In our continuing series, we have part four of the National Church Life Survey (NCLS) data. Stephen Ball explores the areas of Faith and Sharing in QB churches (Health

Check for our Churches) with some interesting results. This issue, Allan Quak contributes the third instalment of the “Sensing God” series. We have already covered the senses of sight and touch, and this issue explores the sense of taste.

We also have stories and photos from our recent Prayer Focus celebration – it was great to see churches joining forces across suburbs and regions to come together in united prayer.

Once again, I really appreciate the support, comments and feedback. We wouldn’t have a magazine without the articles and contributions sent in by our wonderful churches and readers – thank you, and keep them coming in!

God Bless,

Linda Nevell Editor, the qb qb@qb.org.au

Articles and advertising in The qb express the opinions of the authors, not necessarily the editor or publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the correctness of facts and information however we cannot accept responsibility for errors. The publishers reserve the right to accept or decline any advertising.

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THE CHURCHES CHRIST ATTENDS

BY JOHN TILLMAN – THE PARK FORUM WWW.THEPARKFORUM.ORG

Scripture: Revelation 3.19-20 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.

Recently a reader returning from a trip to Southeast Asia emailed me describing some of the amazingly humble leaders of the churches there.

These are men and women operating quietly under the threat of being disappeared by the government. They will never grace the stage of a pastor’s conference in the West. They will never promote a book on a talk show. They will never teach a church growth seminar at a conference. Yet they are leading megachurch sized ministries that are growing and thriving under true oppression.

I needed the encouragement because my mood was dark as I read about pastors (and prominent Christians) here in the West tripping over their own feet amidst scandals and petty arguments. We (I) need the humbling realization that the Western church is not the center of God’s universe, and like Elijah in the cave, we are not alone in serving God. Frustrations with the church are nothing new and have been a chief reason given for those exiting the church.

But there are no safe spaces or perfect churches in the New Testament or on earth. Everywhere you go there is correction and conflict. Most of the New Testament is letters filled with corrective, confrontational language.

We may not wish to attend scandalous, imperfect churches, but Jesus does. Revelation 3:20 is often used as a scripture about individual

salvation, but in context it is Christ knocking on the door of a sinful church, wishing to sit with them.

Christ longs to feed us from the tree of life, to heal blindness with salve, to clothe nakedness with mercy, to dress us in white, to give us a new name, and to seat us on his throne.

These are not promises made to the “perfect” churches, but to the failures.

In Christ there is radical, loving confrontation and a passionate pursuit of reconciliation all wrapped up together. This is a mixture that our culture can’t stomach—we prefer excoriation to redemption.

No church is perfect or stands alone.

Dysfunctional and broken churches are an opportunity for Christ to bring redemption, if we will but listen.

Christ confronts and comforts in the same breath. If we cannot find it in our hearts to do so, we can find it in his.

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 7

KNOWING GOD

HEALTH CHECK FOR OUR CHURCHES PART 4

BY STEPHEN BALL – REGIONAL CONSULTANT Queensland Baptists have long emphasised a commitment to the Word of God as the basis for their beliefs and practices. Baptists also have a strong evangelistic legacy, and seek to be at the forefront of local and global mission and evangelism. It shouldn’t be surprising then, that Baptists around Australia when given the chance to ask specific questions about the denomination were interested in how we are doing in sharing our faith.

Queensland Baptists churches had 11,783 adult responses and 1,052 responses from people under 15 in the NCLS survey, so the results provide a very strong sample of the views and positions of Queensland Baptists.

Sam Sterland, NCLS researcher says that one of the most positive responses for Queensland Baptists was that 8 % of attenders at the time of the survey identified themselves as newcomers to church. Whilst we would like to see this number grow, Sam explained that across the denominations, this percentage puts Queensland Baptists in the top 3 denominations for having newcomers in their congregation. In addition, the figure is higher than other state Baptist Unions. Congratulations Queensland Baptists, but there is still much more to be done in sharing the good news and accepting God’s invitation to join

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Him in the building of His Kingdom.

In Mathew 28, Jesus charges His followers to go into the world and make disciples. This is still the great challenge for churches today, as we live in a culture which seems intent on turning its back on God. The survey also revealed a heart for mission amongst Queensland Baptists not only through established church but a heart for innovation and breaking new ground through church planting. 37% of respondents indicated they would support and participate in church planting.

HOW WELL-EQUIPPED DO CHURCH ATTENDERS FEEL TO SHARE THEIR FAITH? The survey indicated that 15% of attenders feel very well equipped to share their faith compared to 14% of Baptist attenders around Australia.

Another 31% considered themselves well equipped. To share the gospel and make disciples Christians must have relationships with those who have not yet decided to become followers of Jesus. (See Infographic) The challenge is to increase our connections and sphere of influence with those who are not yet followers of Jesus—God calls us to be the salt and light in our world. It would be great if we could see our schools, neighbourhoods, workplaces, community clubs and organisations as part of the mission field God has called us to. The other area we are growing in as Queensland Baptist

churches is at becoming part of the community through structured services such as playgroups, schools, sporting clubs, teaching English as a second language, and many other creative ways which provide opportunities to build relationships with people in the wider community.

SHARING OUR FAITH A significant number of respondents reported that they do share their faith (see Infographic).

The challenge from the responses was that in the first three categories (sharing meals, sharing faith in work etc, and inviting people to church) over 50% indicated they did this only occasionally, whilst 43% only occasionally shared through social media. The great commission calls us to go with urgency and to hold reaching others as a key priority.

For Queensland Baptists we need to be more intentional in seeking opportunities to share our faith.

INVITING FRIENDS TO CHURCH In a society which emphasises individualism, we can overlook the importance and power of genuine and authentic Christian community.

Jesus emphasises this when He taught that people will know we are His followers by observing the relationships we have with one

another. John 13: 35 says “by this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another”.

The good news from the survey was that 64% of respondents believed their church was a good church to invite newcomers, and a further 26% thought their church was OK but could improve. Only 2% indicated they had major reservations inviting newcomers to their church.

WHEN ATTENDERS ARE MOST LIKELY TO SHARE THEIR FAITH Whilst 32% of responders indicated they were comfortable to share their faith in most situations, 52% were most likely to share in a relaxed environment. 24% of people linked their faith sharing to their feeling of closeness (or otherwise) to God. The survey also explored the reasons why people might be reluctant to share their faith. 10% indicated they would be more confident to share their faith after they had seen someone else doing it. 9% indicated they would share more if they received appropriate training. See the infographic for more blockages to faith sharing.

CONCLUSION The results of the survey for Queensland Baptists are both encouraging and challenging. There is a good heart and a willingness to share our faith with those who don’t yet know Jesus. On the other hand, there is much room for growth and improvement. It can be a trap to compare ourselves with other denominations. We should focus on the task which Jesus has commissioned us to do. This survey provides a rallying call to build on the foundations with urgency, skill and intent. Our churches are surviving and, in many cases, thriving, not because they are looking inwards but outwards to a community that desperately needs Jesus in their lives.

The words of Jesus remain as relevant today as when He spoke them all those years ago. He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into His harvest field.” Luke 10:2. May God continue to use those who make up Queensland Baptists as effective harvesters in the field in which He has placed us.

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 9

SPEAKING OUT

“WHAT IS GOD’S WILL FOR MY LIFE?” I was recently talking with someone at the QB Convention about how we discern God’s will or guidance in our lives. This is a question asked in numerous conversations over the years as I have shared with prospective students contemplating study at Malyon – “But, how can I be sure that God is leading me to College? And, how can I be sure about what course of study to undertake?”

We, at Malyon, have been processing our enrolments for second semester 2018, and are already looking ahead to our course and subject offerings for 2019.

them with some wonderful hands-on ministry experience. “But, how do I know if this is God’s will for my life?”

This may not be your specific question, yet there may be any number of important decisions with which you are wrestling and seeking to know God’s will.

I remember in my early twenties being introduced to Garry Friesen’s book, Decision Making and the Will of God. This book challenged my previously held views about what it meant to discern the will of God for our lives. By his own admission, Friesen’s views developed as he struggled to discern which college God “wanted” him to attend. In his book Friesen pushes back on what he calls the “traditional view” of understanding the will of God. He argues that what is needed is a simple understanding of “the way of wisdom” that is set forth in the Scriptures. In developing his argument, Friesen notes four fundamental principles that should guide us: (1) we must be obedient to God’s moral will (as revealed in the Bible); (2) we are responsible to make wise decisions within those moral parameters; (3) we must make wise decisions according to our spiritual maturity and; (4) we must always be ready to submit to God’s overriding sovereignty.1

our decisions are made, there are specific times and circumstances in which God has an individual plan for our lives.

This view is demonstrated by the experience of the Apostle Paul who, during his second missionary journey (Acts 16), was led by the Spirit of God to go into Macedonia and share the gospel. Here, Paul and his companions travelled throughout Phrygia and Galatia, “having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia” (Acts 16:6).

While we are not told specifically how they were kept from preaching, it is interesting to note God’s sovereign hand in the circumstances. God’s time for these areas would come later (Acts 18:19-19:41). But, there can be no doubt that God had a specific will for Paul’s life and ministry at this point in time. This was further revealed through a vision that came when they finally arrived in Troas.

That night Paul saw a vision of a man from Macedonia begging him, “Come over to Macedonia and help us” (Acts 16:9). Luke records that “after Paul had seen the vision, [they] got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God was calling [them] to preach the gospel to them” (Acts 16:10).

While many of us may wish that God would reveal His will to us with writing in the sky or a vision that left us in no doubt, few of us have had such experiences. So how might we discern His will?

Amongst the many courses we have on offer, there is a one-year Launch Program specifically targeted at high-school leavers. It is a fabulous one-year Diploma of Christian Ministry course which helps students get a better handle on the Word of God, helps them begin to think and reflect theologically about God’s purpose for their lives, and provides

Yet, my own reading of the Scriptures, and personal experience as a follower of Jesus, suggests that there are numerous times when God wants us to be aware of His specific will for our lives. In contrast to Friesen, Dallas Willard, in his book In Search of Guidance, encourages us to recognise that while the Scriptures reveal God’s moral will, and provide the boundaries in which

10 AUG/SEPT 18 QB.ORG.AU

1 For a good summary of Friesen’s book refer to http://www.equip.org/article/decision-making-and-the-will-of-god/

To be able to discern God’s will in a specific circumstance, we must first be prepared to live according to His will as set forth in the Scriptures.

Certainly, this seems to have been the case for the Apostle Paul who was captivated by a desire to serve Christ (1 Corinthians 4:1) and be led by the Spirit (Romans 8:14). But what other things might God use to clarify his will for our lives in specific matters?

Friesen draws attention to the seven “road signs” which he asserts are part of the traditional view of discerning God’s will. However, I have found five guiding principles, which have good biblical warrant, and have assisted me greatly in determining God’s will for my life and decision-making.

1. The witness of the Heart This refers to the inner stirring of the heart in which we sense that God is leading us in a certain direction. While this can be subjective, I am sure many of us know times when it seems that God has planted a God-honouring desire in our hearts-which is not born out of selfish ambition. While Jeremiah reminds us about the sin-tainted

desires of the human heart (17:9), Paul also reminds us that for the Christian “it is God who works in [us] to will and to act according to his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13).

and godly counsel of trusted brothers and sisters in Christ.

These are people of prayer who have a close and faithful walk with Christ. “The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice” (Proverbs 12:15).

2. The witness of the Word I refer to the ways in which the Word of God shapes our thinking and understanding of God’s salvation plan and His purpose for us and the world. The Psalmist says, “the unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130). I also refer to those times when reading the Scripture, that God drives home a clearer sense of His call and direction upon our lives. Here, however, a word of caution is needed, that we do not simply read into the Scriptures whatever we are looking for to confirm our own desires.

5. The divine ordering of circumstances I leave this point until last, as convenience does not always equate with calling (as was the case with Jonah who found a ship bound for Tarshish when he was running away from the call of God—Jonah 1:3).

Notwithstanding, Isaiah reminds us that God is the One who goes before His people, opening and closing doors according to his good pleasure - “What he [God] opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open” (Isaiah 22:22).

3. The witness of the Spirit By this I am referring to that confirming peace that comes as we are “led by the Spirit of God” (Romans 8:14) and our desires are on those things which honour and glorify God. It is that inner witness and peace that comes from the Spirit of God as we “keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25). Paul urges us to “be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, to present our requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard [our] hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:9).

As I reflect upon the major turning points in my journey of following Jesus, I must confess, at each significant fork in the road, most, if not all, of the above guiding principles have helped me discern God’s direction. Does it mean that I have always gotten it right? I am sure that along the way, I have missed God’s cues from time to time – perhaps too busy pursuing my own dreams and ambitions. But even in such circumstances God has proven wonderfully patient and faithful.

Indeed, He is the One who continues to work all things (even our mistakes) together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

4. The witness of Godly others I am referring to the wise Peter Francis Principal, Malyon peter.francis@malyon.edu.au

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 11

Baptisms Atherton Tablelands Baptist Church • Christine Zhang Boonah Baptist Church • Edward Garton • Maria Garton Bundaberg Baptist Church • Ngoc Le Bui Thi • Meg Gear • Levi Griffiths City Tabernacle Baptist Church • Greg Hall Innisfail Baptist Family Centre • Jo Dixon

Christine Zhang

Kalbar Baptist Church • Caleb Cadena • Reuben Cadena • Andrew Irving • Eliza Irving • Finlay Irving • Lucas Irving

Edward Garton & Maria Garton

Leesa Bailey

Kruger Parade Baptist Church (Redbank) • Zoe Acutt • Joella Sweatman • Aidan Sweatman • Meagan Siddel • Amy Day • Kalisha Heazlewood • Fraser Rielly • Josh Toleafoa • Micaela Anstey Mareeba Baptist Church • Natasha Hogan

PRAYER IS POWERFUL Please set aside some time to pray for the people recently baptised. They have taken a courageous and life changing step in their walk with Christ.

Baptism is an important event in the believer’s walk with Jesus Christ. The Bible talks about water immersion baptism, in which a believer makes a public confession of their faith. Jesus led the way in example of water baptism!

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!

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Moranbah Christian Fellowship • Gayle Smith • Jackie-Lee Haereiti • Leesa Bailey Stafford Heights Baptist Church • Sue Curley • Kitty Walsh

Around the regions

Bush Dance with the Smashing Bumpkins!

St John’s Community Church (Rosedale) Folks arrived at St Johns with a plate of food to share and a gold coin donation—excited to hear the bush dance band “Smashing Bumpkins”.

Over a hundred smiling faces from all ages crowded into the local Rosedale Memorial Hall. The four-player band erupted into song, and the dances began!

Mid program supper was shared on the veranda with copious amounts of delicious food enjoyed by all.

The second half of the event continued with dances, including ‘Strip the Willow’, after which we all cleaned up, and bid farewell to the band as they headed back to Brisbane...tired but thrilled by another great night!

Many thanks to the Hall Committee, individual donors of food and funds, and the St John’s Community Church Plant for organising and covering any outstanding costs for the Outreach Event.

QB Prayer Week 2018 Regional Consultant Pieter Henning advised that QB churches were once again encouraged to register and participate in a focus week of prayer in June 2018, and many churches made great use of the initiative to pray, either as individual churches, or by combining with other churches.

The acronym “PRAY” was made available via the QB website as a suggestion for use with the various focusses being encouraged: P = Praise R = Repentance A = Asking/praying Y = Yielding/surrender.

Under each of these headings, specific focus areas within the ministry context of QB were highlighted.

It’s been encouraging to hear stories of some very creative ways in which churches embraced the opportunity, and how congregants of all ages were encouraged to participate in meaningful prayer times together. “One example that especially encouraged me was from Pastor John Merriweather of Outlook Church in Toowoomba—they held a morning prayer service where even the youngest of the children were actively praying during the time together.”

We’d like to express our thanks and appreciation to all who joined in this prayer focus, while at the same time, encouraging you to continue praying for the diverse and widely spread ministry contexts of QB.

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 13

Outlook Christian Church – Toowoomba The prayer event was well-attended with 40 people staying after the service. It was a family event where people of all ages were encouraged to participate. There was a total of six prayer tables, all focusing on a different letter in the word ‘Pray”. The event focused on the Church’s Mission, which is ‘to have the Father’s heart for all creation alienated from Him, and to live in such a way that all things come under His reign.’. The whole concept behind the event was to involve the church in praying for each other and the wider community. To conclude the event, the church gathered in a large circle and joined together to pray for each other, our church and our city.

Dalby Baptist Church Rob Rodgers advised that the Dalby Baptist & Chinchilla Baptist Churches got together for a combined prayer event. “Between the two churches we had a total of about 40 in attendance. It was a wonderful evening of food, fellowship & faith-exercising ... as we committed our churches, communities, country & concerns (including the current needs of our QB movement/ denomination) to our sovereign LORD in prayer”.

Looking forward to doing it again next year (when it will be Chinchilla’s turn to host us).

Evangelical Mission for Salvation Church (at Regents Park) Pastor Enoch advised that “God wins new souls and will increase our church”.

Maryborough Baptist Church

Gladstone Baptist Church Alison Hall advised that over 50 people from Gladstone Baptist attended various prayer sessions. “We got together with lunch time meetings and a family gathering of pizza and Prayer. This was a wonderful opportunity to involve the children. On Saturday morning we had an awesome session of praise and worship, followed by prayer, yummy morning tea and more prayer. Again, the youngsters were involved, and it was such a blessing to hear their heartfelt prayers” We believe that God was glorified, and our prayers were answered by our Awesome God. 14 AUG/SEPT 18 QB.ORG.AU

Gwen Lewis advised that “Our Connect Group prayed, and I know others used the prayer sheet in their homes.

Everyone in our church received a prayer sheet. A lot of people said how helpful it was”.

DANIELLE MAKARITA KAHIKA Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he came to die on the cross of Calvary for me Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he made me in his image Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he knows everything about my past Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he not counting all of my sins Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he calls me his daughter Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he has given me my own crown of life Jesus is not ashamed of me Because He never has been and never will be ashamed of me Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he loves me with unconditional love like no one else Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he protects me Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he has set me free Jesus is not ashamed of me Because Jesus has embraced me Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he has written my name in the lamb’s book of life.

Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he accepts me for who I am Jesus is not ashamed of me Because his arms are open wide for me Jesus is not ashamed of me Because I’m the apple his eye Jesus is not ashamed of me Because he holds me in the palm of his hand.

Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet SHARON HUMPHRY Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet.

How precious is Your Word to me, life giving, life breathing word.

It lifts me up when I am down, it gives me hope when none is around.

Lord Jesus Your Word is life because You are life.

These are Your words to me. How precious are Your words to me.

They give me a hope and a future, a reminder of my destiny.

How precious are Your words to me Lord Jesus.

Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Thank You Lord Jesus.

Lord Jesus Your Word IS precious to me.

Thank You that we have it so freely and readily available.

May we not take it for granted.

May we continue to ponder and meditate and live Your word out every day that we have.

Thank You Jesus.

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Jesus is not ashamed of me

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MILESTONES

131ST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION BOONAH BAPTIST CHURCH Boonah Baptist Church recently celebrated their 131st anniversary milestone with a service and luncheon. The congregation were blessed to have Reverend Doctor Peter Francis and wife Wendy attend. Peter is Principal of Malyon College, and Wendy is Director of the Australian Christian Lobby.

Peter delivered a truly inspirational message. Following the service, the

congregation continued to celebrate with a luncheon where Ruth Beames and Fay Vogel were invited to cut the cake. The beautifully decorated cake was made by Fran Licciardo, one of the Deacons.

Ruth is wife of Rev. Sid Beames, who was well known amongst our wider Queensland Baptists family and has had a long-standing connection with the church. Fay has been a member of the church for more than 60 years. Our little church, under the guidance of Pastor Colin Christian, wife Rebecca and their four sons, has grown not only in number but in Faith.

We celebrate all that God has done. The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:3

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Founding Pastor Doug Drinnan takes part in the celebration.

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS – GOODLIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH - BUDERIM life; embracing the community and celebrating our Saviour. “We are so grateful for every individual that has been part of the Goodlife story over the last 30 years. And we look forward with anticipation to all that lies ahead”.

30 years ago, Doug and Marti Drinnan with their four children stepped out in faith to pioneer Goodlife Church from their lounge room.

In 1990, having outgrown the Drinnan’s loungeroom, the church moved to the hospitality room at the Moololaba TAFE. With mirrored ceilings and a fully stocked bar behind the pulpit, there were lots of great memories of those early days. The 1990’s were a season of steady growth for thr Church and they moved to the larger premises of Immanuel Lutheran College.

Mountain Creek State High School was the next home for Goodlife Church, and they were exciting days as they watched the construction of “the dream”, a community centre facility at 100 Buderim Pines Drive.

Please pray for Goodlife as they continue their amazing journey.

February 1999 saw the beginnings of earthworks and the construction of the Goodlife Community Centre.

The building was completed later the next year, and the first church service was held in September 2000 with the grand opening on November 25th.

Pastored by Tim Lovell, Goodlife today continues to be a place of

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 17

QB WOMEN

ETHICAL FASHION AND FAITH

BY JANE VAN MOURIK – ANEW CONFERENCE TEAM MEMBER

Women like fashion. We know this because women everywhere are wearing clothes. How can we, as the women (and men) of God, purchase and wear clothing in a way that pursues righteousness and protects the life and rights of the people that make them?

As a movement, Queensland Baptist Women’s Ministry have established a new vision for our conferences.

We are Anew Conference - women with a heart for change. We pray that as women come to our conferences they experience change within themselves, and that they are empowered to bring change to those around them. We pray that ultimately, they will become women who change the world, particularly Photo: CatwalkPhotos / Shutterstock.com

in the areas that are under the bondage of poverty, slavery and exploitation. The last part of our mission statement isn’t simply a nice idea; a good humanitarian afterthought. It is a gospel mandate that we can no longer ignore, or just leave to the missionaries.

Proverbs 31:8-9 and Psalm 82:34 clearly outline our responsibility to take seriously the plight of the poor and oppressed, and to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

This year, as part of our conference program, we have chosen to show a film called “The True Cost”. If you haven’t seen it, I’d strongly recommend a viewing. It’s an excellent documentary that reports

on a variety of issues affecting our world because of the fast fashion revolution. It not only highlights the ethical issues of slavery and unfair pay in the supply chain of making clothes, but it also shows the economic problems associated with the materialistic attitude the fast fashion industry invokes. It also reveals the environmental effect the industry is having in various countries (not all of which are developing countries), and the way these environmental issues are damaging the health of humans all over the world. It is not a faithbased documentary, but it is an all-encompassing, eye-opening film that sheds some much-needed light into the dark world that is the fashion production industry.

Our heart in showing the film is not to shock our Queensland women or create turmoil and angst, and the film itself isn’t about sensationalism or falsifying information. We simply want to share the information contained in this film however we can, because information is power.

How can we, as Christians, “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” if we have not heard their plight? How can we “uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute” if we have no knowledge of their oppression? How can we “rescue the poor and helpless” if we have no idea where they are?

Showing the film has certainly stirred up a lot of questions, the main one being: What can I do?

The first step is to commit ourselves to prayer over the issues involved with the fast fashion industry. It is a means through which the enemy is holding people in poverty, persecution and physical danger. As the people of God stand united in prayer, God will rescue the poor and helpless and deliver them from the grasp of evil people (Psalm 82:4).

Please join with us, the Baptist Women of Queensland, to pray for God’s will to be done in the fast fashion industry.

I have a few suggestions of changes you can make in your own life to affect change in the world.

Grab a copy of Baptist World Aid’s Ethical Fashion Guide.

This is a great tool which you can use when you go clothes shopping.

It lists a variety of fashion brands, and rates them from A through to

F based on the company’s existing policies and procedures, in relation to the risk of slavery within their supply chain. This year the Guide’s rating is also colour coded. It works a bit light a traffic light. A+ through to B- are green, C+ through D- are yellow, and orange and F is red. My rule of thumb is “if it’s green, go for it”, but you can decide what you feel most comfortable with.

Shop strategically.

Part of the issue with the fast fashion industry is that people make short term fashion choices, rather than long term clothing ‘investments’. I’d encourage you to consider buying a small number of higher quality items that work well together and will last for several seasons. This generally means buying less trendy items and more classic styles so you avoid looking ‘outdated’. It will take more thoughtfulness to follow this process, but materialism is a big issue in our society today, and I believe as Christ’s representatives on earth, we have a responsibility to set ourselves apart. This is yet another opportunity to heed Paul’s words to the Romans – “Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think” (Romans 12:2a NLT).

Buy from an op-shop or host a clothes swap.

Buying pre-loved clothing from an op-shop means less money goes into the pockets of big companies.

It also saves clothing from going into landfill, which is a huge problem all over the world. If you love a bargain and prefer lots of variety in your wardrobe, this is a great way to achieve this. Hosting or attending a clothes swap is another

way to change up your wardrobe very inexpensively. Baptist World Aid offers a step by step guide for hosting your own clothes swap which can be found at https:// baptistworldaid.org.au/action/ clothes-swap-guide/#form .

My final tip is simply to speak out.

Share what you know about the fast fashion industry with friends, family and others. Do some research and find out for yourself how much fashion is costing humanity and our planet. You can also write letters or email certain companies who performed poorly in the Ethical Fashion Guide, asking them to consider making changes in their ethical practices (Baptist World Aid has writing templates for this in their resources section, https:// baptistworldaid.org.au/resourcecategory/advocacy-resources/). If we stay silent, how can we expect anything to change?

Let’s remember that nothing is impossible for our God. He loves every one of the people involved in the fast fashion industry. From the top CEO’s of the companies, to the people who plant the cotton seeds, and everyone in between. He has a solution-and we can be a part of that solution if we accept the challenge set before us. My question for you, dear reader, is this: now that you know, what will you do?

Cathy Knechtli, State Director, Queensland Baptist Women director@anewconference.org.au

QCCC

WHY CHRISTIAN CAMPING STILL MATTERS Baseline statistics gathered from recent Census and NCLS surveys show the importance of continued investment and growth in Christian camping, at a time where many denominations are abandoning it.

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15-29-year-olds make up 25% of our national population, but are just 13% of the Australian church. On the other end of the spectrum, over 70s are 13% of the community but 29% of the church population.

Nearly 90% of Christians in Australia made a first-time commitment of faith before the age of 30.

80% of Christians in Australia made a first-time commitment of faith before the age of 20.

More than 90% of QCCC’s guests are under the age of 30.

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Most of these guests have little or no other interaction with church organisations unless they attend a Christian School (though chaplains suggest the highest percentage of unchurched teens will be found in elite GPS-style “Christian” schools).

1 in 2 Christians made a first-time commitment, or recommitment within the context of a Christian camp.

75% of 15-29-year-olds who attended a Christian camp found it strengthened their faith and assisted their spiritual formation.

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QCCC operates, and will continue to operate: • • •

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Primarily to a youth demographic; With programs and services generally exercised towards the unchurched; Spearheading QB’s thrust of mission and discipleship into a society increasingly absent from God and church but still desperately in need of a relationship with God and His people; Knowing it is still generally true if you ask any group of Christians how many came to Christ, or rededicated their lives on camp, around half will respond in the affirmative.

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Growing the mission: As the largest denominational provider of Christian Camping in Queensland QCCC’s client list numbers more than 1,000 groups and 50,000 people, drawn from all areas of society, serviced on an annual basis. Belief in the ministry and investment in its growth will see many more groups and people reached with the gospel, in compelling, innovative and effective ways. The following initiatives are a few examples of existing and potential programs QCCC can deliver with appropriate resourcing and investment.

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NCLS data suggests 52% of QB congregants can’t agree with the statement that their spiritual gifts are being used well. QCCC exercises and trains in 5 of the top 7 self/ identified gifts in QB churches (hospitality, interpersonal, education, communication & management). QCCC can play a vital role in the continuation and growth of innovative church camp programs, responding to societal trends, focussing on gift identification, nurture and outreach.

Continuation and further development of QCCC as Queensland’s pre-eminent provider of Camping and Outdoor Education services to the school sector.

Continued provision and growth of the options and programs from Mapleton’s Triballink Aboriginal Activities Centre, a gospel-focussed initiative of reconciliation, both national and spiritual, advocating indigenous organising principles and strategies of leadership. This will include provision to corporate groups, particularly those seeking Cultural Awareness Training through Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs).

Realisation of the existing concept plan for the establishment of a Christian Leadership Studio, modelled on the example of Muskoka Woods, at Brookfield, within proximity to more than 100 Brisbane schools, for leadership camps and day programs.

Realisation of the existing concept plan for the establishment of a Hospitality Studio at QCCC Tamborine, incorporating the training aspects of Jamie Oliver’s “Ministry of Food” but also providing training in missional hospitality and the use of hospitality and relationship for home/neighbourhood evangelism.

Growth of provision to international schools from Asia,

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particularly using Triballink as QCCC’s point of difference.

It is predicted within twentyfive years Queensland camp providers will deliver program to more international groups than domestic ones. This provides Christian Camping the opportunity to influence the next generation of leaders from non-Judeo-Christian countries in Asia, a new chapter of “inbound mission”. It is strategically essential for QCCC to establish a strong presence in the north of the State. North Queensland has proximity and the best Australian weather during the peak tour season of the northern hemisphere summer. This also provides a venue for northern churches to use.

Partnership with Baptist schools and youth at-risk ventures to establish a world-class pathway of character and spiritual formation through sequential approaches to Outdoor Education which will become the envy of all other school and atrisk sectors.

• Sequential pathways through QCCC sites and ministry partners, referencing the R1202 Hand throughout: • Expeditions programs: • An extended stay facility in the Lutheran tradition of such options at middleschool, and for at-risk use: • General camp programs: • School Holiday camps and programs linked to QB Schools, chaplains and youth pastors.

Professional and adequate facilities for the provision of Peak Events for QB purposes, and provision to thousands of school, church, community and corporate groups (eg QB Convention, Anew, Easter Convention, QB Youth State Camp etc).

CAMPFIRE Internship continuing and growing, numerically and in training options/venues.

Establishing itself as a pathway

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 21

of incarnational discipleship, guaranteeing missionally trained staff in a range of disciplines (outdoor education, hospitality, maintenance, cultural awareness, customer service, management) given opportunity for service as QCCC and QB’s ministry groups grow and expand.

Resourcing the mission: Most denominations in Queensland have lost their camping ministries, often because of a failure to reinvest in renewal and growth.

Modern Christian camping is a social enterprise, capable of self-supported operation while exercising a vital mission function to a youth demographic. The venues QCCC operate are still in direct line of descent from Mr Lethem’s original bequeath (either purchased from the sale of Currumbin or obtained from resultant operating surpluses) and therefore need to be purposed to camping ministry.

At some point Mr Lethem’s insistence his stewardship stipulations for Queensland Baptists’ camping ministry be published in the QB Annual were neglected, and his provisions for the longevity and growth of this ministry do not appear to have been observed for several decades. The Lethem conditions are reinstated as a reminder Queensland Baptists’ camping needs to once again be enabled to re-invest in and expand its ministry so it can remain relevant in an industry of rapid advancement and change, particularly where secular corporate operators are entering the marketplace to deliver a message bereft, and at times hostile to the gospel.

The Lethem Covenant agreed to by the Baptist Union in perpetuity concerning his bequeath to camping ministry is:

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That at least 25% of the profits from camps shall be transferred to a Reserve Fund to cover replacement of buildings when they are worn out. (In 1989 QB’s Financial Advisory Board appear to have increased this amount to 80%).

That the Union has the right to sell the land, and/or other buildings, and equipment on the whole property, provided the proceeds are devoted to a similar purpose.

That these conditions be printed annually in the Year Book of the Baptist Union of Queensland so they will not be forgotten.

Andrew Grant Director of Queensland Conference and Camping Centres andrew.grant@qccc.com.au

PERSECUTION BRIEF

somalia Somalia: No Place for Christians Somalia is one of the most hostile countries for Christians. Islam is the state religion. Muslims suspected of becoming Christians are targeted by extremists. In 2017, 23 people suspected of converting to Christianity were killed by al-Shabaab. In a country with only hundreds of Christians, this shows how hard it is to follow Jesus.

Persecution from All Sides Civil war has left communities full of violence and corruption. Lawlessness has allowed Somalia to become a safe haven for Islamic radical groups. Communities grow more aggressive and intolerant towards Christians, not only in Somalia but also in the surrounding region.

Over the years the situation has worsened. Islamic militants have intensified their hunt for Christians in positions of leadership.

Source: Open Doors - www.opendoors.org.au Photo: Somali woman and children

Society expects that all Somalis are Muslims. Any celebration of Christmas is banned. Any conversion to Christianity is regarded as a betrayal of Somali family and clan. If Somalis are suspected of being converts, family members and clan leaders will harass, intimidate and even kill them. Women are pressured to comply with al-Shabaab’s way of life. They’re forcefully married off to Muslim men, often beaten and put under house arrest.

Pray for Somalia Pray for protection for Christians as they share the gospel in Somalia.

Pray that God reveals himself to many Muslims. Pray they will be bold enough to accept Jesus regardless of the cost.

Pray Christians can find safe ways to read the Bible and gather together.

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 23

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QB CONVENTION 2018 – CAIRNS!

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Thank you to the QB Staff, Rydges Staff and volunteers who contributed to the convention making it the wonderful success that it was.

We acknowledge and thank the worship team, coordinated by Josh McGinty from Cairns Baptist, for the excellent times of worship, and for the team of volunteers from Cairns Baptist lead by Jeremy De Vries and Jireh Scheurwater, who looked after the children and youth during the week.

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1 – Key Speaker Edmund Chan 2 – Elective speakers: Aaron Fozzard (QB Youth and Young Adults) 3 – Key Speaker Ann Chan 4 – Elective Speakers: Dave Benson (Malyon College) 5 – A happy group from the Hosanna Churches taking a break. 6 – Acting General Superintendent Stewart Pieper 7 – Worship 8 – Outdoor dining at Cairns Baptist Church

We had approximately 315 Pastors, spouses and their families, as well as church delegates gathered in Cairns for our annual QB convention hosted by Rydges Esplanade Hotel and Cairns Baptist Church.

Edmund and Ann Chan were the key speakers, and we had many positive comments about their edifying and engaging presentations.

We had a special time of networking, fellowship and worship, and we enjoyed catching up with many of our rural and remote churches.

Enjoy the photos from the week, and we will post more images on our QB magazine blog (www.qbmagazine.org.au).

We also thank our main sponsor Baplink, and sponsors Christian Super and Carinity for supporting the convention.

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“For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

Matthew 18:20 9 – The Kid’s group having fun 10 – Stewart Pieper prays for Edmund Chan 11 – Joshua Avia at Cairns night markets 12 – Laser Tag activity for the teens! 13 – View from the terrace 14 – Morning prayer 15 – Rydges Esplanade 16 – Josh McGinty (Cairns Baptist Church) and Jeanette Singleton (elder of the Irukandji people) welcome guests to Cairns.

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 25

‘TOO EMOTIONAL, TOO LONG AND WRONG FOR THE OCCASION’!

It was ‘too emotional’, ‘too long’ and ‘inappropriate for the occasion’!

These were just some of the reactions in the media to ‘that’ sermon at the recent royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

But other people just loved it–for the message, and for the joy and enthusiasm of the preacher.

One commentator called it a ‘Baptist’ style sermon, whatever that means! These responses by the non-church going public raise questions about one of the most distinctive parts of the Baptist church service: just what do people think ‘the message’ is supposed to be, and why is it so important?

In Queensland, Baptist sermons have taken different forms over the years, but today, if readily available podcasts are any guide, sermons are mostly running explanations of a Bible passage, and typically take 30-40 minutes (well beyond the 14 minutes of the wedding sermon, which they said was already too long!). They are often backed by elaborate PowerPoint presentations, and might include a YouTube video for extra impact. Styles vary from the passionate and personal or motivational, to the heavy Bible lecture.

and were often read by lay church leaders when no preacher was available. Countless pulpiteers have used the illustrations. His many students have carried his preaching style around the world—Queensland being just one place where his proteges came to serve so well. (By the way, it is said that Spurgeon advocated a 40-minute sermon!)

Church showing older style pulpits – Wondai

There have also been changes in the physical side–the pulpit was once highly prominent (if not dominant!) but it may not even exist anymore with its central location given over to the music team or a screen.

Even the name ‘sermon’ might have changed to something like ‘Bible talk’.

Baptist history has plenty of instances of preaching! The late ‘world’ evangelist, Baptist Billy Graham was famous for his efforts over a long period of time, and in so many places. This was a long way from his practice sermons as a youth amongst the trees in a local forest.

Proof of sermon by C H Spurgeon in his own hand – 23 April 1882

Church showing older style pulpits – Gordon Park

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Just as famous was the preacher, C H Spurgeon. His published sermons alone fill 63 volumes, with up to 60 per volume (see image of sermon manuscript). Though mostly based in London, his printed sermons, were usually available in American newspapers the next day, and they travelled all over the world. Anecdotally they have been preached by many pastors,

Rev James Voller ‘The Father of Queensland Baptists”

The minister who was known as ‘the father of Queensland Baptists’, Rev James Voller, had an unfortunate episode in his preaching. After being a pastor in England for a decade, he came to Sydney in 1853 and led the central church there for 16 years—but then his voice gave way.

Treatment of various kinds, including a trip home to the UK did not help, so he ‘retired’ to Queensland, and was able to do quiet but effective work. He helped found and nurture churches, and provided much valued wise leadership.

When first published in 1881, the Queensland Baptist (QB) magazine’s role was resourcing preachers. As well as offering book reviews, Bible studies, reprints of sermons and reports on biblical and pastoral matters, the QB carried a ‘Preachers Page’. One of these columns discussed ‘Christ as preacher’ and

‘Preachers Page’ - heading of article from QB

another presented some themes for sermons as suggested by a new Bible translation. The ‘apostolic ideal of a true ministry’ was another topic, but an interesting one was on ‘new methods of preaching’— it advocated being modern in method and relevant in content, but condemned any watering down of the message.

Another column discussed preaching to children but reserved its best comments for the need for ‘brains in the pulpit.’ Quoting an American Baptist preacher and hymn writer, it said, ‘Some of our most learned men have brains enough in the pulpit, but not brains enough to know how to use their brains.’ Explaining how they failed to preach relevant messages, but instead discussed outdated topics with no meaning for their hearers. It went on to say that a preacher ‘has no right to be dull. A sermon should be a thing of life and beauty. It need not be great, eloquent, magnificent.

It may be as simple as the talk of childhood.’ He affirmed that the preaching of the gospel ‘becomes the wisdom and power of God unto salvation.’

Church showing modern style – Wavell Heights

also provided). Standing in front of their peers and the college principal was an ordeal for many beginners.

There was a Lay Preachers’ Association for many years, and a former lecturer at the Queensland college wrote an award-winning text book on preaching.

But be it ever so simple, a sermon developed by a devoted pastor, delivered within the context of the church family worshipping together, and geared to their needs, still fulfils a vital role in nurturing the faith of

The Baptist Archives collection includes sermon materials from some Queensland preachers, including many audio tapes and the original proof of one of Spurgeon’s sermons. Contributions are welcome so we can develop a more representative record of this most valued part of Baptist church life.

PICTURE YOUR CHURCH! Get your church on-line at these self-funded non-profit sites. www.churchesaustralia.org.au A photo record of all church buildings (including closed and re-cycled). www.monumentaustralia.org.au Photos of public monuments and memorials.

Record your church history by contributing photos of your church (including interiors and foundation stones) and honour boards. Go to the websites for more details.

In Queensland, to ‘preach the Word’ (2 Tim. 4:2) was the key role of the pastor, and it required lots of time in preparation. But that was only one of the pastor’s duties—there was also leading the entire service, of which there were two every Sunday, as well as a mid-week Bible study.

Nowadays, preaching may be the only role of the pastor in the service.

At theological college, the sermon class was a highlight of the week (sometimes elocution lessons were

believers. It is this function of the sermon (so precious to Baptists throughout history) that seems to have been missed by those commenting on the admittedly unexpected effort of Bishop Curry at the royal wedding.

Churches showing contemporary style – Biloela, Gladstone, Rockhampton

Baptist Church Archives archives@qb.org.au Phone 07 3354 5642, 07 3878 3178 QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 27

MALYON

“My personal calling came when God spoke to me after a Serve Asia Mission to rural Japan with OMF in 2008,” she humbly explained.

developing Christians of INTERVIEW BY REBECCA LAMONT FOR MALYON

“I remember coming back from the mission thinking, ‘That was great, but I won’t be a missionary in Japan’. God challenged my personal influenceagenda through a series of events.

“For a week my dreams were all in Japanese; I met a Japanese Driven by a strong desire to obey student called Arata who invited Bachelor | Masters | Doctoral God, Diploma of Ministry student me to the Japanese Christian Esther van Raalte started her studies Fellowship; I became involved at Malyon just two months after her with Kenmore Baptist’s ‘Speaking ‘Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you first child was in 2014. with knowledge andborn understanding’ (Jeremiah 3.15).

English with Aussies’, where I met lots of Japanese students who I As a new mother this is hardly was easily able to minister to and www.malyon.edu.au the time many would commence see come to faith. I conceded that studying, especially in a different God’s plan was the right plan, and area to their previous career. Just since then have been on a journey like her namesake, Esther is an of ministering and growing in God’s anointed woman of God. calling for my life.” Esther shared.

Degrees in theology and ministry

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Thus began Esther’s journey to theological college to make sure she was equipped to speak biblical truth, and minister faithfully in a crosscultural context.

Esther felt the Holy Spirit led her to study with Malyon. She had previously studied Occupational Therapy and done very well at school but deliberately chose to study a diploma.

“I wanted to journey with my husband and I didn’t want to cause myself any stress, considering I just had a baby and still wanted to engage with life. I also just wanted to be able to enjoy my diploma as part of my calling rather than an academic exercise.”

kmsmith.com.au

“This letting go of academic priority has allowed me to really focus on my purpose and I think this was really important for me when I had just become a new mum.” Esther admitted.

Since the start of her studies, Esther and husband Rodger, also a Malyon student, have welcomed a second child, which has only made life busier but, with good planning and help from family, she has not only been staying on top of her study but excelling with a GPA putting her in the top 5 Malyon students.

“My reason for Bible college grounds me and I have been very intentional about linking assessment to real life,” she revealed.

“What am I doing in ministry and life that this assignment can add value to? …all my assignments have been personal contextualisation.” Esther pointed out.

Doing one subject and completing it online has given Esther the flexibility she needs with her family, while still working towards the calling God has given her.

Phone 3252 2031

while allowing room for inevitable distractions.” Esther explained.

Of course, there is one thing that Esther maintains helps her through her studies, and that’s prayer!

To find out more about what study options are available to help equip you for your calling go to www.malyon.edu.au

“Completing my studies at night or when babysitting is available has allowed me to manage my many roles of family, mission, church, friend, worker and student,” she expressed.

“I plan ahead, looking at when tasks are due and give myself a two to three-week timeframe for completion, scheduling in when I can complete certain aspects,

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CARINITY

Exciting new era for Carinity aged care Brisbane’s newest community for seniors heralds an exciting new era in aged care – while paying homage to the history of Brookfield and a stalwart family of Queensland’s Baptist community.

Utilising solar energy power, The Residences has been integrated into the local environment through smart energy-efficiency design and lighting and a focus on waste management and water minimisation.

The Residences at Brookfield Green, where peace and tranquillity are a way of life, will open in August.

The $30-million environmentally sustainable development promises to deliver the best in aged care – and enhance the legacy of Carinity caring for older Queenslanders for almost 70 years.

The building complements Carinity’s existing aged care and retirement community which opened as “Resthaven” in 1972 on land acquired by noted Baptist contributor Samuel Dart in 1869.

Brookfield Green is the new name for the $60-million master-planned re-development of Carinity’s Gold Creek Road property nestled in the hills of Brookfield, a serene semirural community just 16km west of Brisbane city. The Residences is the first stage offering 96 hotel-style luxury rooms with private ensuites and state-of-the-art care facilities.

The new building’s design features bright, open-plan public spaces to create the feel of a stylish contemporary hotel, rather than a traditional residential aged care centre. Most of all, The Residences delivers stunning views and fullservice care in a community for seniors unlike any other.

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“We’ve already built a wonderful community at Brookfield. By redeveloping the site, we are able to give our existing and future residents the best care and lifestyle possible,” Brookfield Green Residential Manager Nadia Fletcher says.

“Residents will have exclusive access to a private dining room, café, salon and chapel and receive specialist care from visiting health professionals. They will enjoy delicious meals prepared daily by our on-site chef, take part in social and wellness programs, and soak up the tranquillity within the native gardens.

“Brookfield Green also features world-class memory-assisted living spaces, palliative care and respite

services, ensuring around-the-clock support tailored to each residents’ individual needs.”

Carinity CEO Jon Campbell says Carinity has provided care to seniors at the site for almost 50 years.

Over the coming years ongoing development will see retirement villas and supported living suites added, delivering a new era in seniors living in the western suburbs.

“Carinity combines consumer needs, the latest technology and learnings from seven decades in the aged care industry to deliver excellent support for ageing Queenslanders.

Our vision is to build communities where people are loved, accepted and supported to reach their full potential,” Jon says.

“With the recent refurbishment of our large, ensuited Miller rooms, we now have marvellous aged care rooms priced from $375,000 and a range of options for pensioners.”

TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE TOUR OF THE RESIDENCES AT BROOKFIELD GREEN CALL CARINITY ON (07) 3550 3783.

Old meets new as heritage honoured The Residences at Brookfield Green pays tribute to the history of the Brookfield region – and to a family whose connection to the district stretches back 150 years.

The late Dr John Leslie Dart gifted 34 acres of land to the Baptist Union of Queensland in 1964, on which Carinity’s aged care and retirement community at Brookfield is built.

In August the Gold Creek Road site’s name changes to Brookfield Green – a $60-million masterplanned re-development which will eventually feature terraced retirement villas and supportedliving suites clustered in close proximity to the new aged care community, The Residences.

Names chosen for the three wings of The Residences building – Eliza, Lucinda and Kittybrook – pay homage to the pioneering Dart family. The Eliza Wing is named after Eliza Dart, who migrated to Brookfield in 1869, and Lucinda Wing honours Eliza’s mother, Lucinda Dart.

Kittybrook Wing is a combination of the words “Kitty” and “brook”.

“Kitty” was the name of the milking cow which sustained the Dart family

during its pioneering days, and “brook” recognises the stream which flows across the Brookfield Green site.

The Bannerfield Private Dining room is named after the property at which Lucinda Dart lived with her husband James Brimblecombe. Honouring the traditional owners of the land in the district, the top floor of The Residences is named “Bundaleer”, the Indigenous Australian word for “among the trees”.

The “Plume” hair salon reflects the plumage of the many peacocks which live around the native forest, while The Residences’ on-site cafe, “Rafters” reflects the area’s timbergetting heritage. Trees sawn and transported by bullocks to the river were tied together into “rafts” and floated downstream to timber mills.

Brookfield Green sits on land once owned by Brookfield pioneers Samuel and Eliza Dart. They later helped start the first church in Laidley, and subsequent generations of the Dart family have been actively involved in Baptist endeavours.

They include Harold Whitmore Dart, ordained at Queensland Baptist College, Oliver Dart, instrumental

in the purchase and construction of Queensland Baptists’ campsite at Mt Tamborine, and Roger Dart, who helped build Caloundra Baptist Church.

“Carinity is proud to build on its strong links to Brookfield and honour a family who have served the Baptist Church over several generations. In addition, a descendant of the Dart family pioneers who migrated to the Brookfield district in the 1860s works for Carinity,” Carinity CEO Jon Campbell says.

Furniture and furnishings from the original “Resthaven” aged care building at Brookfield, opened in 1972 at a cost of $600,000 and largely funded through public donations, have been incorporated into The Residences at Brookfield Green building.

PHOTO: The Residences at Brookfield Green pays tribute to Eliza Dart, a pioneer of Brookfield on whose family land the aged care and retirement community is set.

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 31

Sensing God - Taste

BY ALLAN QUAK

Taste is a very powerful sense.

I have a Dutch background which meant we had salted liquorice in our house. Most don’t understand why you would put a piece of liquorice in your mouth that is salty. When I would go to school with salted liquorice my friends would regularly ask for a piece.

I would say to my mates, “You’re not going to like it” But they would say, “You just don’t want to share”.

So, I would give them one, knowing full well the outcome would be the same. They would put the salted liquorice into their mouth and almost immediately spit it out. Then somehow it would be my fault that they didn’t like it!

The power of the taste It is not just a physical power, it is also a spiritual experience.

You see, it happened in Psalm 34 — David describes the power of God and the power that comes in the relationship we have with him.

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•

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Being in this powerful relationship is a daily, ongoing, activity extoling the Lord at all times (vs.1).

The relationship is a place where the afflicted hear and rejoice (vs.2). Where those who are suffering, or feeling guilty, or having doubts and struggles, are accepted.

Our relationship with God is one of immediacy; seeking the Lord and hearing His answer (vs.4). Walking with a God who is responsive and is in dialogue with us.

In relationship with God we have our perspective and outlook on life changed, looking to God and being radiant because of His presence (vs.5).

In this relationship, God provides security, with an angel of the Lord encamping around us (vs.7). He doesn’t just pitch a tent and move on - He stays and keeps watch.

What a great relationship to have.

Don’t you agree?

Yet, it is not enough.

David goes on and says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”

It is a great blessing to know about our relationship with God and have knowledge of how it can be. But, if there is not taste in the relationship, then all we are doing is listening to historical facts. It is only when you taste, not just knowing that Jesus died, but that Jesus died for ME, only then is the power of the relationship real. Only then do you have what you did not have before.

The enjoyment of taste.

But there are so many people who are just so stubborn. You know the situation. You are somewhere and there is all this food which has been lovingly prepared and set out on a table. Then there is that person.

“I don’t like it.”

“Have you tasted it before?”

“No, I have never tasted it, but I don’t like it”.

“So, you have never tasted it, and you know you don’t like it?”

“No, I have never tasted it. I don’t like it and I don’t want to try it”

It happens at a table, but how many people are also like that with God? They don’t like God, but they are also not willing to try and taste. You talk to them about the wonders of Christianity and how it has changed your life. And you say to them, “Do you want to try …?”

“I don’t like it.”

“How do you know you won’t like it if you haven’t tried?”

“I just know that I won’t” We know these people, some of them are our closest family and friends, and we grieve. We just want them to taste, because we know that when people really taste God they don’t want anything else.

So, in this situation what do we do?

Well, firstly we make sure that our relationship with Jesus is one where we have tasted - not just knowing but also tasting.

Then we pray that we can be a good taste of Christianity for others.

But how do you get people to taste, when they don’t want to taste?

This is the point where I introduce you to “Japanese Rice Evangelism.”

Years ago, my parents-in-law celebrated their 40th anniversary, so our whole family went to a Japanese restaurant. My nephew, who was about 6 at the time, firmly stated, “I don’t like rice.”

His parents said, “That is true … he doesn’t like rice.”

What does a person who doesn’t like rice eat at a Japanese restaurant?

So, I said to my nephew, “This is not ordinary rice, this is Japanese rice.

I think that if you tried the Japanese rice, you will like it.” So, my nephew tried “Japanese Rice”, and for the next 6 years his parents gave him “Japanese Rice” because that was the only rice he liked. When he finally realised that rice is rice he could no longer say, “I don’t like rice.”

Is “Japanese Rice Evangelism” the way to approach people who say, “I don’t like Christianity” or, “I don’t like God”. It is the evangelism where we invite people to look at our lives without saying anything about Christianity. For many may not like Christianity, but they like the moral standard you hold to, and they like

the way your family runs, and they like the way your marriage works, and they like the way you deal with relationships.

Is perhaps part of our calling to go out and share the Gospel without even calling it the Gospel? To give people a taste of what they really need, because they don’t realise they need it.

People may be against Christianity and God, but they look at us and say, “There is something in that person that is attractive to me. Their life-style. Their choices. The way they function as a family.”

That is “Japanese Rice Evangelism.”

We live as those who have tasted.

Through us the world gets a taste of a relationship with God, because they have tasted our lives.

That the not-yet-believer may one day say, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”

SIMA’S INCREDIBLE STORY

BY BAPTIST WORLD AID AUSTRALIA

August marks the beginning of Baptist World Aid’s Be Love Sponsorship Sunday season.

have been very different without the help of Sima’s Australian Child Sponsors, Graham and Carly.

“It’s one of our team’s favourite times of the year,” says Baptist World Aid Communications Coordinator, Samara Linehan, “because it’s a time when we can celebrate with churches the incredible impact they’re having for children living in poverty, thanks to their generous Child Sponsorship.”

“Before her family joined the Baptist World Aid Child Sponsorship project, Sima’s mum struggled to pay for her school fees,” she explains. “In fact, it would not have taken much to end Sima’s education for good, trapping her in a life of poverty.”

Child focussed development work is an important part of Baptist World Aid’s heritage.

Since the beginning of its first Child Sponsorship program in 1974, Baptist World Aid has been dedicated to ensuring that children have the future they deserve.

“This year, we’ll be sharing with you the inspiring story of a young girl named Sima,” says Samara. “I had the privilege of meeting Sima on a recent trip to Nepal.”

Sima is a bright young girl, with her whole life ahead of her. But, as Samara found out, things might 34 AUG/SEPT 18 QB.ORG.AU

“But through the Child Sponsorship project, Sima’s mum was trained in goat raising and vegetable farming, which has helped her to grow her income.

Now, it’s easier to pay for Sima’s school fees and there are plenty of fresh vegetables for the family as well!”

In a village, like Sima’s, growing your own food means so much more than food on your plate. A trip to market is not only a fourhour walk each way, it’s also a treacherous journey.

“It’s something I didn’t truly understand until I’d attempted walking that impossible terrain myself,” admits Samara. “There

I was, on the side of a cliff, muscles screaming in agony, and I suddenly comprehended what a convenient supply of food could mean to a family like Sima’s.”

God is using the generosity of Australian Child Sponsors to bless families and free children, like Sima, from poverty.

Today, Sima is at the top of her class. In the future, she hopes to bless others in her village by becoming a nurse.

“Of course, your generous Child Sponsorship means full stomachs and it means a good education… but it also means so much more,” says Samara.

“When you sponsor a child, like Sima, you help give them hope for a brighter future – and that is just incredible!”

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QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 35

REFLECTIONS FROM THE WRITINGS OF MOSES

BY CHRISTINE PILT - BACHELOR OF MINISTRY (MALYON)

Reviewing the book of Numbers recently, I was struck by how much Moses’ words had impacted my lay ministry & leadership amongst women throughout the past 30 years. Coincidentally, I have been asked by acquaintances to share some thoughts and tips about things I’ve learned in this voluntary capacity.

Numbers 1:1, 2, 4, 16, 18 “The Lord spoke to Moses”, “Take a census”, “Appoint leaders”, “One from each tribe, each of them the head of their family”.

I’ve learned…that it is critical to identify a calling on your life. It’s no good filling a job because no one else has ‘put their hand up’. If God has called you to lead, then lead. He will equip, empower and encourage.

When your leadership is challenged (Numbers 12:1-2; 16:1-3) you have God’s calling to sustain you.

I’ve learned…that God loves order and organization. Everything runs more smoothly when there is a plan.

Create an Excel spreadsheet. Take a registry of members. You need to know who your people are; that they are not forgotten, but pastorally followed-up. Busy people like to know important days in advance.

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I’ve learned…that you need a vision, a purpose, a mission statement. The driving force for my local church is Luke 9:11 Jesus “welcomed the crowds, spoke to them about the kingdom of heaven, and healed those who needed healing.” As an initiative of the church Connect groups, my ministry area has this assignment continually before us. E.g. For any decision-making processes, we determine, “Would people feel welcome? Are we spending more time chatting or teaching about the kingdom? How are we bringing about healing? Are we praying, or referring to the Pastor or to professional counselling when deeper healing is required?”

Numbers 2:2 “Each company is to camp under its distinctive tribal flag.”

I’ve learned…about the importance of generations mixing together in the one group. Find an area where each group can meet, feel at home, and experience confidentiality when sharing. Welcome older people to an easily-accessible room with airconditioning or heating, if available.

Offer child-minding to encourage younger mums to attend Bible study groups.

I’ve learned…that eating together as a community is essential. Morning tea is accessible before each gathering. At the close of each year, we enjoy a ‘Celebration’ service and lunch to recall the impact of connecting, learning, giving and serving.

I’ve learned…that the pressures to balance family, church-life, and work, are very real. We offer night time Connect groups so women don’t miss out on spiritual input or pastoral care.

Some like to mix up groups every year. I’ve found that there is greater continuity, accountability, and depth when groups stick together for the ‘long haul’. They intuitively care for one another; they work through personality scraps because they are invested in the group.

Numbers 4 The Kohathites, the Gershonites, and the Merarites were assigned specific jobs of service to benefit the whole tribe.

They were responsible to carry out the directions of Aaron and his sons.

I’ve learned…that it’s worthwhile to gather with my team on a consistent basis. Once every term I guide

them, challenge them, plan, revisit accomplishments, reflect on poorer decisions and work out better ways of handling situations. Journal writing can be helpful and insightful.

Develop a culture of responsibility and learning.

I’ve learned…that I can’t do everything! Recognising and incorporating members’ spiritual giftings bolsters their sense of belonging to the ministry.

Contributing by welcoming, administrating, leading a group, serving, with music, through hospitality or decorating, giving financially, or interceding in prayer will benefit the entire community.

Encourage diversity within unity.

Numbers 5:5 “Say to the Israelites: ‘Any man or woman who wrongs another in any way and so is unfaithful to the Lord is guilty and must confess the sin they have committed.” The people “complained” (11:1), “grumbled” (14:2), tried to usurp the leaders (16:3), “opposed” and “quarrelled” (20:2, 3).

I’ve learned…that it’s essential to ‘nip sin in the bud’. Jealousy, a bad attitude, dishonesty, lack of forgiveness, gossip, intolerance…

We live in a sin-filled, broken world that is oozing discontent, inevitable conflict, evil and suffering. God offers forgiveness at every point for every sin. As a Leader, I not only have to demonstrate forgiveness, but actively encourage it. Resolve conflict biblically and constructively.

View disagreement as a teaching or learning opportunity with inherent potential for growth and spiritual maturity.

I’ve learned…that it’s imperative to express thankfulness to all those involved in the ministry (the group leaders, the crèche minders, the hospitality team, the welcome team, the music team etc). Volunteers need to know they are appreciated.

Always, always be thankful!

Numbers 7:89 “When Moses entered the tent of meeting to speak with the Lord, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the atonement cover on the Ark of the Covenant law. In this way, the Lord spoke to him.”

I’ve learned…about the significance of prayer for spiritual warfare. My team assembles together every week, just for 15 minutes, before the Bible study group meeting. We plead with God; we seek His answers to our problems; we pray against the enemy’s evil plans, and we praise God for His incredible answers.

Numbers 11:14 “I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me.”

I’ve learned…the importance of asking for help. I meet with my Pastor once a term to ‘off-load’, ask for direction, update him on specific pastoral concerns. Being accountable is vital.

I’ve learned…that it’s critical to chat regularly with spiritual mentors.

These are women- 10 to 15 years older than me- who have much experience, and invaluable wisdom, plus the time to pray over significant matters.

Numbers 27:15-23 Moses said “May the Lord, the God who gives breath to all living things, appoint someone over this community to go out and come in before them, one who will lead them out and bring them in, so the Lord’s people will not be like sheep without a shepherd…Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hands on him... Give him some of your authority so the whole Israelite community will obey him…Then Moses laid his hands on Joshua and commissioned him, just as the Lord instructed.”

I’ve learned…that it’s advisable to be mentoring a replacement; seeking someone to ‘take over the reins’ so God’s work continues to move forward, unhindered. Seek God’s guidance, regularly be on the lookout, and then train others to ‘lead and feed’. When it’s your time to step down, the group are not left as “sheep without a shepherd.”

I’ve learned… that it’s not about me!

Ministry is about working together in a team and humbly serving those God has directed to our care. My aim is to glorify God in all I do.

Numbers 6:24-26 “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

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PRAYER, JOY AND A BIT OF PLAYDOUGH

BY SARAH MATTHEWS – “MAINLY PLAY” GROUP

Having severe postnatal depression, Stacie and her children were encouraged by her doctor to attend a community play group. She came along to a “Mainly Music” group with her husband and children and started to open up. Soon her husband stopped coming, as she felt confident enough to come alone; embracing the care and support she found in the group. Over the next two years we shared life with her.

Helping her to move to a new house, attending birthday parties and sharing our faith in words when the opportunity arose.

When we started “Mainly Play” Stacie was keen to try it out. The smaller group and the chance to chat around the activity table leant itself to connection. So many honest conversations can be had when you’re making play dough caterpillars! Additionally, she joined a group of families who were preparing to send their children to our Pre-School the following year.

This ‘pre’ Pre-School group was led by one of the kids’ church leaders.

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Soon Stacie was hearing about our kids’ church activity on a Sunday morning and wanted her children to learn about Jesus.

Stacie was only able to stay at “Mainly Play” for a few months – new studies and a change in routines meant she had to stop coming, but how good it was to have that ‘season’ and show her the love of Jesus and the joy He gives us.

Stacie told me that as she sat in kids’ church and listened to the teaching, “It’s as if they’re speaking just to me.” The words were exactly what she needed to hear that week.

She welcomed my prayers for her in the corridor as we passed by and had a quick catch up. Her journey to faith has required a team effort, lots of prayer … and a bit of playdough!

Mainly Music and Mainly Play are offered at many Baptist Churches.

“What do you want most out of life?”

I have often questioned what it is that we most desire as humans. So, I often ask the young people I work with “What do you want most out of life?” Answers have included; fame, wealth, status, sex, making a difference and many more. But the most common thing that is said, which everything boils down to, is that people want to be happy.

known is comforting but superficial.

To be known and not loved is our greatest fear. But to be fully known and truly loved is, well, a lot like being loved by God. It is what we need more than anything. It liberates us from pretence, humbles us out of our self-righteousness, and fortifies us for any difficulty life can throw at us.”

As we discuss what truly brings people happiness, most will eventually get to an idea of love and relationships. But over the years, I have noticed that even though people have family and friends who love them, they often still feel alone and even depressed. I know that there are many causes for this, and that mental health is a serious concern, (which people should seek professional help for).

Desire to be loved

Desperate about?

But it has made me question what it is that we are desperately wanting.

Why is it that so many people seem to be so unhappy?

I’m still not 100% sure, and I probably never will be, but over the New Year I think I just got a little closer. I was reading Timothy Keller’s bestseller “The Meaning of Marriage” which aims to describe the Biblical vision of what marriage should be. Many of my friends thought this was quite the laugh considering that I was single.

However, I thought that it would be a good idea to educate myself, rather than basing my opinions solely on what I have heard and seen.

It was a great read, and whether you’re single or married, young or old, Christian or not, I think it has a bit of gold for everyone.

But what stuck with me most was a quote that said; “To be loved but not

It doesn’t matter how old we are, how much we have. or where we are from, we all have a desire to be loved. But people can only love what they know of us. If we hide our fears or insecurities or mistakes from our loved ones, they are only able to love us to a point.

However, the more that we let people know of ourselves, the deeper and more genuine love becomes. As we do this, the sense of safety, trust and commitment builds, and slowly the openness becomes easier.

It’s a scary idea— trusting our loved ones with the things we wouldn’t want anyone in the world to know.

Because we fear that if they truly knew us, that they might not love us anymore. It’s the fear of rejection, betrayal and judgement. The more we let others know about ourselves, the more vulnerable we become.

But it is in this vulnerable place, where we slowly let our loved ones come to know all of who we are, that we find the one thing I believe we desire more than anything else in the world: Intimacy. To be truly known and fully loved. To be loved in the way that God loves us.

It is this is intimacy with friends, family, partners and God, that I think is the missing piece to the puzzle of our lives.

WHAT DO WE REALLY DESIRE MOST?

BY ETHAN MILLER - PRESS SERVICE INTERNATIONAL

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 39

My wife and I recently became firsttime parents. Already, I think one of my favourite parts of fatherhood is seeing my wife develop into a loving, attentive, self-sacrificing mother—everyday while I’m at work she devotes her life to our precious Amira.

So, when I have a day off, I love getting involved. I wear Amira in a baby-wrap, change her nappies, dress her up, take her to appointments, or church, or shopping, and so on. You know, general parenting.

Yet I have noticed that this elicits a bizarre reaction: others seem to marvel at my innocuous actions.

People approach and comment: “Wow, out with just daddy,” “You’re doing really well by yourself’,” “You’re such a hands-on dad,” “Giving mum a break?” I think my favourite is, “that’s nice of you to babysit her!”

At the clinic This attitude was exemplified when I took Amira for her first vaccinations.

I had the morning off, so offered to take her and deal with the cacophony of pain-filled wails. At the clinic there was not a single family where both parents were present—it was a large group of mums, doing it alone (sometimes while also wrangling toddlers).

Yet the workers (and some mothers) focussed their attention on me, again talking about how I was doing well to be there alone, giving my wife a break, and apparently taking an unprecedented interest in the life and health of my progeny.

None of the mothers received similar comments. Nobody was told, “You’re doing really well to look after her alone,” “That’s nice of you to give hubby a break,” or “You’re such a handson mum.”

WHY I REFUSE TO BE A ‘HANDS-ON’ DAD

BY HAYDN LEA - PRESS SERVICE INTERNATIONAL

40 AUG/SEPT 18 QB.ORG.AU

It’s like people implicitly expect mothers to

do everything baby related. They have a responsibility towards their child. Fathers conversely, are not obligated to be involved.

Anything that they do is a generous, but entirely unnecessary, act of compassion. Conducting the dayto-day roles of parenting is not normative for fathers.

Yet as I read through Scripture, this picture of fatherhood seems entirely foreign. Scripture, in fact, has much to say about how fathers should act.

I will address a small sample.

The Greatest Commandment First, when God gives what becomes known as the greatest commandment to love Him (Deuteronomy chapter 6 verse 5), He follows this with another instruction: “You shall teach [these words] diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise” (chapter 6 verses 6-7).

The context is that Moses is speaking to the people of ancient Israel, which culturally would likely have included men first and foremost, who then had the responsibility of leading their families. So the fathers were commanded to be actively involved in walking, laying, rising, sitting and talking with their children, and intentionally teaching them the things of the Lord. The implication is

that fathers were to be involved in all aspects of the child’s life.

Ephesians 6 Secondly, the Apostle Paul directly commands: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians chapter 6, verse 4).

This instruction is given in both the negative and positive sense.

Negatively, fathers must not provoke anger through harshness or severity.

But I think for many families’ negativity is provoked due to a father’s absence, when he is ‘too busy’ or just not interested in dayto-day parenting. Paul warns against this.

Positively, Paul tells fathers that they are to be comprehensively involved in raising, educating, nurturing, disciplining and spiritually developing children. In fact, children are a great blessing to fathers (Psalm 127, verses 3-5), which includes a great responsibility.

The Lord has blessed fathers with a wonderful gift, and holds us accountable for what we do with that gift (cf. Matthew chapter 25, verses 14-30).

Theological precedent Finally, there is a theological precedent pertaining to the importance of fatherhood. God has eternally existed as one nature in three persons: Father, Son and Holy

Spirit. These three exist in an eternal, perfect relationship, demonstrating that fatherhood is not incidental to God—it is actually an essential part of His ontology.

This, in turn, gives us a glimpse of what true fatherhood looks like. The Father’s relationship with the Son is one of perfect love, reflecting His love for us (John chapter 17 verse 23). The Father is not uninvolved, or too busy for the Son, nor does He view His relationship with the Son as somebody else’s job. The two are so close, that they are one in essence (John chapter 10 verse 30).

In the same way, human fatherhood becomes part of our ontology, and must not be viewed as secondary to who we really are as men.

Embracing the blessing So, no, I don’t do my wife a favour by changing a few nappies; I don’t go above-and-beyond my real role by generously helping raise my daughter; and I certainly do not baby-sit my own child. I am not a hands-on dad. I am simply a dad.

So, men, parent your kids. It is not a distraction from your true calling as a man, nor is it somebody else’s job.

Embrace the wonderful blessing and responsibility that God has given you by modelling the Father’s love and being involved in every possible aspect. Follow His example and command and show your children what a true man of God looks like.

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SPIRITUAL AND RELIGIOUS: THE GOSPEL IN AN AGE OF PAGANISM TOM WRIGHT PAPERBACK: $16.99 AT KOORONG ‘I’m spiritual, but not religious.’ It’s a phrase that’s often used to explain why, although they don’t go to church, people still feel that life must have some kind of transcendent meaning, but what does this ‘spirituality’ consist of? In Spiritual and Religious Tom Wright argues that, whether people realize it or not, they are often simply reverting to forms of ancient paganism that are very similar to those that confronted the earliest Christians. With his characteristic verve and incisiveness, Wright traces the parallels between the worldviews of the first and twenty-first centuries, and shows how a better understanding of God as Trinity can breathe fresh life into our understanding and preaching of the gospel today.

THE CASE FOR CHRIST MOVIE DVD: $24.99 AT KOORONG A hard-driving journalist, Lee Strobel was exactly where he expected to be at work: on top. His awardwinning investigative reporting recently earned him a promotion to legal editor at the Chicago Tribune.

But things weren’t going nearly as well at home where his wife Leslie’s newfound faith in Christ went against everything Lee believed-or didn’t believe-as an avowed atheist.

Utilising his journalistic and legal training, Lee begins a quest to debunk the claims of Christianity in order to save his crumbling marriage. Chasing down the biggest story of his career, Lee comes faceto-face with unexpected results that could change everything he knows to be true.

- Koorong

- Publisher

REVIVAL THIRD DAY CD: $19.99 AT KOORONG

www.koorong.com

Following up on their worship oriented 2015 release Lead Us Back, rock legends Third Day have returned to their southern roots with thirteen tracks that go from upbeat and exuberant to more quiet and reflective. Look out for the lead single ‘Revival’ and get ready for some soulful energy! Includes 2 additional songs and 3 bonus recordings.

- Koorong 42 AUG/SEPT 18 QB.ORG.AU

Called Home Raymond Stephens Smith 21 AUGUST 1925 11 APRIL 2018

Raymond Stephens Smith was born in Warwick on the 21st of August, 1925 on a sheep and cattle property named ‘Condaburra’ on the banks of the Condamine River.

Ray recalled happy days with cats, dogs, foster lambs, ponies, books and wide-open spaces. The farm had no electricity, radio or refrigeration. He whittled beautiful birds and drew exotic animals when he could escape the many duties of a farm boy.

Childhood days were also the days of the Great Depression.

Folk ‘on the wallaby’ were frequent visitors or passed the farm gate. When Ray’s father’s health declined, the farm was sold, and the family relocated to Nundah in the early 40’s. Ray began year 10 at Brisbane State High but left for work to support his family. These were the war years.

Ray also loved flying, going solo after 3 hours and leading his flight. As the war in Europe ended and Japan was pushed back in the Pacific the need for fighter pilots diminished. So, he transferred to a code breaking team in Brisbane, probably in General Douglas MacArthur’s Head Quarters.

Ray started a job in the Public Works Department as a cost estimator and as a part time architectural student. He was admitted as an Associate of the Royal Architectural Institute of Australia in 1953. In those working years Ray travelled and worked widely throughout Queensland, responsible for many major government, commercial and civic buildings. He travelled the world on study tours and gave many, many hours in pro bono work to the Baptist Union of Queensland.

Some time in his teens, Ray acknowledged the claims of Jesus of Nazareth on his life and likened that pursuit and capture to the relentless ‘Hound of Heaven’ in Francis Thompson’s wonderful poem. He made commitments in those years from which he would never waiver or resile, and which would be his guide in every decision he would make in the future, whether in marriage, family, business or personal life.

Retirement in 1990 gave Ray time to pursue and express his love of painting, and he was President of the Queensland Water Colour Society for some years.

Farm boy, sportsman, aviator, dogged student, husband, father and family man, architect, business man, sculptor, artist, instructor, friend and faithful Christian man, Ray loved every day of his life, seeing even the gloomy ones as being in the shadow of a loving hand over and above him.

All which I took from thee I did but take, Not for thy harms, But just that thou might’st seek it in My arms.

All which thy child’s mistake Fancies as lost, I have stored for thee at home: Rise, clasp My hand, and come!’

Extract from “THE HOUND OF HEAVEN” Francis Thompson

Joyce Rosina Glassop

15TH MAY 1913 – 16TH APRIL 2018 Joyce was a much-loved resident at Carinity Aged care – Brookfield and the ‘oldest’ Old Girl from Brisbane Grammar School, Joyce Glassop (nee Kent) was also featured on a television news broadcast for Remembrance Day. Joyce was an ambulance driver for the Australian Women’s Army Service during WWII, and driving was her life.

She was part of an all-women team of drivers working behind the scenes as part of the war effort. “I remember going to the old Brisbane Exhibition Building to enlist in 1942,” she said.

“They wanted women with drivers’ licences because they wanted the young men to be fighting due to the threat from Japan.

“I had been a music teacher before that and I got tired of getting kids to practise. I enjoyed the change in occupation.

“We’d pick up the men from the Howard Street Wharf and drive them to Tenterfield to a large house they converted into a hospital. They weren’t all injured; some were what we called bomb happy.“ Joyce lived at Carinity Aged Care Brookfield and rode in a 1942 jeep at the facility’s Remembrance Day ceremony a few years ago. She became a star as the ride was filmed and beamed live to all residents’ rooms.

Joyce was a much loved, amazing woman who God blessed with a long life in service to Him. His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!

You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ Matthew 25:33

Images: Joyce Glassop doing her bit as a young ambulance driver during World War II. Joyce Glassop receives the chauffeur treatment in a 1942 Jeep.

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 43

FUN ZONE WHERE IS THAT LITTLE PIGGY? Sir-Save-a-Lot the Baplink piggy bank is hiding somewhere in the magazine.

Can you find him? Congratulations! Congratulations! To all those who found Sir-Save-a-Lot hiding on page 43 (June/July 2018 Issue of The Qb Magazine).

CROSSWORD

WORD SEARCH Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.

Puzzle Choice www.puzzlechoice.com is the source of this Crossword. www.puzzles.ca is the source of this word search.

44 AUG/SEPT 18 QB.ORG.AU

For solutions, visit Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GaythorneOffice/

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

CALM SPOT - COLOUR

Sudoku rules: Each row, column and block must contain one of the numbers from 1 to 9. No number may appear more than once in any row, column or block. When you’ve filled the entire grid, the puzzle is solved.

Sudoku puzzle provided by www.sudokuoftheday.com visit them and get a new Sudoku every day!

WORD UNJUMBLE Ocean

REBUS PUZZLE

Unjumble the words relating to the ocean.

Then unjumble the red letters to answer the clue.

Clue: A mollusc that produces pearls.

Can you find the hidden word or common phrase in the picture puzzles?

UTLTRE HISFRSAT NDIOHLP SOCUPTO

HEARTED

IYFEHLSLJ

Word Unjumble Answer

Fun with words is the source of the puzzles www.fun-with-words.com

QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 45

QB MAGAZINE

Subscription Form - $19.50 per year

THE VOICE OF QUEENSLAND BAPTISTS

Name

WHY NOT SUBSCRIBE? Treat yourself or give as a gift.

Address Email Phone Send invoice via email

The Open Door

Retreat

Email details to qb@qb.org.au Or post to PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Q 4051

Queensland Baptists’ Retreat Lodge

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QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 46

Refresh

The Open Door is situated 30km north of Gympie on Mt Kanigan in a rural setting with spectacular 360

degree views. The complex sleeps 27-30 people in seven bedrooms and one dormitory and there are two kitchens, two lounge rooms, four bathrooms, a dining room and fireplace. Other amenities include a children’s play area and games room (pool and ping-pong tables) and a small meeting room/chapel.

The Open Door is a relaxed, refreshing environment that provides a unique uninterrupted setting for leadership seminars, prayer retreats, team weekends and missionary holidays.

For further information contact: Queensland Baptists Phone: (07) 3354 5600 Email: enquiries@qb.org.au

www.qb.org.au

ACCOMMODATION BRISBANE: House available as a ministry for missionaries and church workers on the move.

Three bedrooms, fully furnished, everything provided. Bus stop at the door. Minimal rent.

Email: gtho4536@bigpond.net.au

CALOUNDRA - GOLDEN BEACH: Highset three bedroom holiday home. Weekends or weekly.

Pets OK. Close to beach. Phone 0402 077 822 or lizottaway15@gmail.com.

CALOUNDRA: Sunshine Coast, Qld, beachside units from $400/wk, ph 0427 990 161.

SHARE ACCOMMODATION: Fairfield Christian Family (www.fcfchurch.org.au) is located in a vibrant inner-city suburb close to universities.

There is currently one vacancy for a female (student or worker) in a 2 person share accommodation house adjacent to the church. Please contact Pastor Neil Pattemore, ph 0435 065 035 or tarragindipats@yahoo.com.au.

FOR HIRE LARGE AUDITORIUM: Seats 290. Queensland Baptists’ Centre at Gaythorne. Phone Sharon, 07 3354 5600 for more information or visit www.qb.com.au – venue hire.

INTEGRITY TRAVEL

Book all of your holidays and travel with Integrity Travel and help missions.

Tours & specials at www.integritytravel.com.au Ph 07 3142 2242 for more information and bookings.

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Travel with no single supplement. Register with Integrity Travel. For more information go to www.integritytravel.com.au.

We can help you get the media part working so that your message is well presented. Video recording - live streaming - sound systems - rear projection screens. Call Darbeth to discuss how we can help make your event a success. 0422 414 829 and ask for Darryl or email info@darbeth.com.au QB.ORG.AU AUG/SEPT 18 47

THE VERY BEST IN AG E D C A R E L I V I N G

Introducing The Residences at Brookfield Green, a welcoming community where luxury suites and state-of-the-art facilities deliver the best in aged care.

Nestled in the hills of scenic Brookfield in Brisbane’s western suburbs, The Residences at Brookfield Green delivers stunning views and full-service care in a community that is unlike any other.

The brand new $30-million development includes 96 hotel-style rooms with private ensuites and exclusive use of Plume Salon, Bannerfield Private Dining, Rafters Café and Chapel.

With world-class memory-assisted living spaces, palliative care and respite services, The Residences ensures around-the-clock support tailored to your individual needs.

Visiting health professionals such as GPs, physiotherapists, podiatrists and dentists ensure specialist care is also on hand.

You have a choice of rooms including the Premium Suite which comes with a large wall-mounted television, adjustable electric bed, optional bar fridge, electric sit-to-stand recliner chair, feature lighting, timber panelling and writing desk.

Enjoy scrumptious fresh meals prepared daily by our on-site chef. You’ll have plenty to do through our wellness and social programs or simply soak up the tranquillity within the native gardens and animals.

At Carinity, our care is provided by people who feel more like family, helping you enjoy and celebrate your life.

Experience the real sense of belonging you get from being part of a Carinity community.

Call Carinity today on (07) 3550 3783 to arrange a private tour.

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